LPOHS programs get major boost

SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille Alternative High School programs are getting a major boost thanks to continued support from the Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation.

 Although the foundation doesn’t want the precise figures of their donation disclosed, it is substantial enough to support the school’s literacy program, guest authors, the “Seconds Anyone?” work-based learning thrift store, student scholarships, graphing calculator purchases and the economically-disadvantaged student fund.

“This foundation is a great advocate of education, both alternative and main stream, and has done so much to support our high school’s vision,” school counselor Colleen Ross wrote in a thank you letter to the foundation. “Without their support, many of our projects and goals would never have been realized.”

The donation is the most recent example in a long history of generosity from the Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation. In Ross’ eight-and-a-half years working for the school, the foundation’s contributions have significantly supported the school’s financial needs.

The Ambrosiani-Pastore Foundation is one of Idaho’s most active supporters of both alternative and traditional education. Established by Jack and Mary Jo Ambrosiani, the foundation operates on the reality that students must have their needs met before they can learn, Ross said.

“I’ve gotten to know Jack and Mary Jo pretty well in the time that I’ve worked here, and they’re just awesome,” she said. “They’re really involved in their church, and they’re definitely Christians that walk the walk and don’t just talk the talk.”